The WPS has seen an increase of individuals luring youth via online platforms like Snapchat, Instagram, Discord, and others. Online luring is when a person communicates with youth through technology, like texting or chatting via an app, game, or website, to make it easier to commit an offence against them.
It's important that young people understand the dangers of online luring. Speak to the young people in your life about talking to strangers online:
- Set clear expectations and work with the youth to create guidelines around texting, social media, and gaming
- Know usernames and passwords associated with their accounts
- Familiarize yourself with parental controls on specific platforms
- Review the youth's followers regularly
- Follow or connect with them on the platform directly
It's important to make sure young people in your life know what online exploitation looks like, and that it is never their fault. Learn more at CyberTip.ca.
If you or someone you know has been a victim, reach out for help. Report it to police using the non‑emergency line, or to CyberTip.ca or Winnipeg Crime Stoppers. If possible, save screenshots or messages that could support an investigation.
You’re not alone - the WPS is here to help.